إِلَّا عَلَىٰٓ أَزْوَٰجِهِمْ أَوْ مَا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَـٰنُهُمْ فَإِنَّهُمْ غَيْرُ مَلُومِينَ 30
Translations
Except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they are not to be blamed -
Transliteration
Illa alaa azwajihim aw ma malakat aymanuhum fa-innahum ghayru malumin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah permits sexual relations within the bounds of marriage and lawful concubinage, exempting believers from blame in this regard. According to classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi, this verse clarifies that the desire for intimacy is natural and permitted within these two legitimate contexts, contrasting with the severe warnings against unlawful desires mentioned earlier in the surah (70:29). The ayah emphasizes divine wisdom in allowing what is necessary for human nature while prohibiting transgression beyond these boundaries.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Ma'arij, a Meccan chapter that describes the Day of Judgment and the characteristics of the righteous servant of Allah. It follows verses (70:29) that condemn those who indulge in illicit sexual relations, establishing the Islamic framework for permissible versus forbidden sexual conduct. The surah contrasts the behavior of believers who guard their chastity with those who transgress.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their wives' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Additionally, 'A'ishah reported that the Prophet said regarding intimate relations with one's spouse: 'This is from the practices of the prophets' (Sunan Ibn Majah).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that fulfilling natural human desires within the bounds of Islamic law (marriage and lawful concubinage) is not a sin but rather a divinely-permitted act, encouraging believers to seek fulfillment through legitimate means rather than forbidden paths. It reminds us that Islam is a balanced deen that acknowledges human nature while establishing moral boundaries.